Town Halls and Public Buildings to visit Saint Barthélemy

This former private home, built between 1796 and 1799, was bought by the Swedish crown in 1816, which officially made it its Customs Office. Damaged in the cyclone of 1837, it was restored before becoming, from 1861, the Maison des Gouverneurs, and then, after its return to France, the Saint-Barthélemy Town Hall. It was abandoned in 2001. All that remains today is the volcanic stone base, the kitchen and the cistern.

The building dates back to the Swedish era (early ^19th century) and, after being converted for various uses (even as a prison!), became the headquarters of the sub-prefecture in 1963. In 1995, it was severely damaged by one of the terrible cyclones (Luis) that marked the island's past. It was rebuilt immediately afterwards. Its architecture is typical, with a stone base and staircase. The four-sided tin roof is reminiscent of Creole-style houses. You'll probably spot a French flag flying permanently.